Nebraska fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Nebraska - April 24, 2025

#### Overview
Nebraska is currently facing a critical wildfire situation, particularly in the north-central region, due to a combination of drought conditions, high winds, and the escape of a controlled burn. Governor Jim Pillen has declared a state of emergency and implemented a statewide burn ban to mitigate the risk of further fires.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** A significant wildfire, known as the Plum Creek Fire, has broken out in Brown County, west of Johnstown. The fire originated from a prescribed burn that escaped containment on April 21. It has since spread rapidly, burning through steep canyons and timber between Valentine and Ainsworth[2][4].
- **Active Fires:** The Plum Creek Fire has scorched an estimated 24,000 acres of land, with current containment at around 30%. Multiple local, state, and federal agencies, including over 30 fire departments and four strike teams, are actively working to control the fire. Air support includes two Blackhawk helicopters and two planes[2][4].
- **Statewide Burn Ban:** In response to the escalating situation, Governor Pillen has issued a statewide open burning ban effective immediately through April 30, 2025. This ban includes all areas of the state and is enforced by various agencies, including the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission[1][2][3].

#### Key Details
- **Plum Creek Fire:** This fire is the primary focus of current firefighting efforts. It has resulted in the loss of several dozen head of cattle, but no homes have been lost as of the latest reports. The fire's spread is complicated by the terrain, which includes steep canyons and timbered areas[4].
- **Prescribed Burn Incident:** The fire started during a prescribed burn operation on private land, which was being conducted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission along with local volunteer fire departments. The incident highlights the risks associated with prescribed burns under current drought conditions[2].
- **Campfire Ban:** In addition to the statewide burn ban, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has enforced a temporary campfire ban across all state park areas and wildlife management areas[2].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are advised to be vigilant and aware of the fire situation. It is crucial to adhere to the statewide burn ban and avoid any activities that could spark new fires.
- **Emergency Preparedness:** Have an emergency plan in place and stay informed through official channels. Clearing dead brush and other combustible materials from properties can help reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
- **Resource Allocation:** Firefighters and emergency responders are working under challenging conditions. Residents are encouraged to support these efforts by following all safety guidelines and restrictions.

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Nebraska Emergency Management Agency:** [nema.nebraska.gov](https://nema.nebraska.gov/)
- **Nebraska Game and Parks Commission:** [outdoornebraska.gov](https://outdoornebraska.gov/)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://www.nrdnet.org/news/04-24-2025/gov-pillen-declares-statewide-burn-ban-through-april-30-2025', 'https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/game-and-parks-part-of-efforts-to-stem-plum-creek-fire/', 'https://northplattepost.com/posts/acc3415f-6667-41b7-ba0f-26c37676b900', 'https://whoradio.iheart.com/content/2025-04-24-wildfire-in-north-central-nebraska-burns-more-than-24000-acres-of-land/', 'https://klin.com/2025/04/24/governor-pillen-issues-statewide-burn-ban/']